Backpacking the Windham – Blackhead Mountain Range Loop
Backpacking the Windham High Peak – Blackhead Mountain Range loop makes for a wonderful 2 to a 3-day outing. Passing over 6-peaks and 3-subpeaks makes for a bumpy ride. There are abundant views on the entire route and you can find spots to camp that are not at a lean-to or designated campsite (aka primitive campsite). Sections of the trail can be arid, especially during summer so plan accordingly. If you do a true loop…
Rescue: Hey, it’s only the Catskills! 8/25/20
DEC Statewide Forest Ranger Highlights Many people think the Catskills are full of simple easy hikes to its highest peaks. These excerpts from the latest rescues in the Catskills by Rangers and local SARS, emergency squads and fire departments show otherwise. Learn! Town of Shandaken, Ulster County Wilderness Rescue: On August 17 at 2:30 p.m., Forest Rangers Brand, Stratton, Martin, and Franke responded to the Giant Ledge Trail following a report of a female hiker…
Windham High Peak Catskill Mountains
Windham High Peak is the most northern of the Catskill 3500 Club high peaks. From various points, it towers over other peaks and valleys even though being one of the lowest of the 3500. It is one of the most frequently climbed mountains hiked in the Catskills due to its outstanding views, relative ease, and close proximity to a major Catskill tourist town. Windham High Peak makes for an excellent winter outing. Featured Photo: Windham…
Blackhead Mountain Catskill Mountains
Blackhead Mountain is a peak in the Catskill Mountains, more specifically in the Catskill’s Blackhead Range or Chain. When viewed from the Hudson Valley, the peak stand some 3000′ above. Blackhead has very steep approaches from the northeast and south and it requires snowshoes and crampons in winter. Blackhead is a required peak for the Catskill 3500 Club membership and is also one of the club’s four winter required peaks. Featured photo: Blackhead Mountain from…
Guide to the Kaaterskill Falls Area
Kaaterskill Falls area is more than a waterfall. Yes, just about everyone who comes to this place comes to see the falls, and it would be right to do so. But without understanding the history and meaning that this area had to generations of Americans would be folly. Also, just rushing to the falls and back to your car would deprive you of one of the best natural spectacles that are not the falls! In…